Physical Education Teacher Education K-12

Illinois State’s Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) program is nationally accredited. It has a long history of preparing outstanding educators for K-12 schools. After graduation, students are qualified to apply for Illinois certification. They are also eligible to teach in public and private schools.

Physical education teachers improve students’ health and teach the importance of staying active. They make lesson plans and organize physical activities that are inclusive for students with a range of abilities.

Why Study Physical Education Teacher Education K-12?

Being a physical educator is a rewarding and fun career. After sitting a majority of the day in a classroom, P.E. is a time students can be active and get moving. Physical educators make an impact on students’ lives by teaching them healthy habits that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Earning a degree from the Illinois State PETE program gives graduates the option to choose what age they want to teach. Certification qualifies graduates to teach physical education in elementary schools, high schools, or community college.

Related Skills

• Interested in health issues and teaching healthy lifestyles
• Interest in educating the public
• Good knowledge of human body mechanics
• Strong oral and communication skills
• Knowledgeable about sports
• Team member
• Good leadership skills
• Interested in physical activities
• Adaptive to new ideas
• Flexible

Being Successful in the Field

• A second teaching area is recommended in a minor or endorsement content area
• Obtain desired teaching certifications for either grades 6-12 or K-12

Related Fields

• Athletic Coach
• Athletic Director
• Intramural Sports Director
• Physical Education Teacher

Career Industry Liaison

Internship Coordinator

Applying to Illinois State

Illinois State's preferred filing period for freshman students for the fall semester is September 1-November 15. Applying early is encouraged, as the University must limit enrollment due to space at the University and in specific majors/programs. Visit the Office of Admissions to apply today!

Plan of Study

This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.

• 4-Year Plan of Study

Applying to Illinois State

Illinois State's preferred filing period for fall transfer students is September 1-January 15. For the spring semester, the preferred filing period is from April 1-August 1. You are encouraged to apply early in the preferred filing period for best consideration for admission into competitive majors. Visit the Office of Admissions to apply today!

Minimum GPA

2.50

Middle 50% GPA

2.84 - 3.57

Required Courses

None

Recommended Courses

It takes three years at Illinois State University to complete this degree. Students should transfer after one year at the community college.

To find the course equivalencies at an Illinois community college, please review our Course Articulation Guides.

• Fundamentals of Physics (PHY 105) or College Physics (PHY 108)
• Human Physiology and Anatomy I (BSC 181 or KNR 181)
• Human Physiology and Anatomy II (BSC 182 or KNR 182)
• Introduction to Psychology (PSY 110)

Academic Advising

Minimum GPA

2.50

Middle 50% GPA

2.84 - 3.57

Plan of Study

This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.

• 4-Year Plan of Study

Application Period

Applications are always available.

Application Information

Current students can use the Apply to Your Program tool on My.IllinoisState.edu.

Academic Advising